narkechur

Source/Harvesting & Post-Harvest

• The plant is grown in tropical/sub-tropical climates (India, Nepal, Bangladesh, SE Asia) and also wild in shady damp places.

• Harvesting: Typically the rhizomes are dug up after maturity; careful handling needed so as not to damage the rhizomes (which may lead to decay).

• Post-harvest drying: The rhizomes may be peeled, half-cut or sliced, then dried in well-ventilated shade or low-temperature ovens.

Quality / Identification Features

• Look for rhizome pieces that are dry, not mouldy, free of extraneous matter.

• Powder should be free of additives/fillers if you’re buying raw herb form.

• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.

Uses of the Raw Material

• Traditional herbal systems (Ayurveda/Unani etc) use the rhizome for: digestive disorders (flatulence, dyspepsia), respiratory issues, skin conditions, diuretic action etc.

• Also in modern phytochemical research, extracts of C. zedoaria rhizome show anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant potential.

• The raw material may be processed into powders, extracts, oils (essential oil from rhizome) for further applications.